Driven by consumers and by legislation to implement antibiotic-free poultry production, poultry producers’ demand for phytogenic solutions is rising – aiming for a strong gut microflora, to keep animal performance high, also under challenging conditions. Phytogenic feed additives company Delacon, developed Biostrong Forte to combine the benefits of the phytogenic actives in its product Biostrong 510 with the positive effects of esterified short and medium chain fatty acids on gut microflora in poultry.

The company commented that demand for the product is currently booming in Asian countries and the product is now available in most Asian Pacific countries.

For a long time, antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) have been used in broiler feed to enhance growth performance. This sub-therapeutic use of antibiotics, as well as the excessive application of antibiotics to treat diseases, has increased concerns about the development of antimicrobial resistance. Thus, research in alternatives like phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) has become prevalent to develop alternatives to in-feed antibiotics, as demanded by consumers and by legislation.

When it comes to antibiotic-free poultry production, nutritionists, veterinarians and animal producers often pursue a diet composition including phytogenic feed additives in order to support the intestinal health of the animal. The wide range of modes of action of phytogenic actives can optimise nutrient digestibility and support the intestinal health.

Studies have shown that under challenging conditions, the application of Biostrong Forte improves feed conversion ratio (-4.4 per cent) and body weight (+3.5 per cent). In addition, it improves resilience against necrotic enteritis, increases livability and profitability of poultry production. Delacon commented that nutritional strategies for antibiotic-free poultry production may include reliable, proven PFAs, such as Biostrong Forte.